Quick QUESTIONS
Can I germinate the seeds from a wisteria seed pod? Carly James, by email Stefan says: Yes, I think you stand a good chance. Assuming the seed pod has now turned brown, sow the seeds in a soil-based compost in a seed tray and leave them outside over winter. They should germinate if you bring them into a little warmth next spring and the results may be interesting, but don’t expect any plants to resemble your existing variety.
I’ve a wasps’ nest in my roof. Should I locate it and destroy it now?
Katie Birmingham, by Facebook
No, because I don’t think you will achieve anything. The nest will be empty because the only wasps to survive the winter are the queens which will be hibernating somewhere away from the old nest. Although it’s sometimes necessary to destroy wasps’ nests in buildings where children or vulnerable adults could be stung, never forget they do a great deal of good in the garden by killing pests.
I’ve been told there’s a chemical to slow privet growth. Does it exist?
Ma Carter, by email
Not any longer. There was a product called Cutlass on sale some years ago. It contained a growth regulating chemical called maleic hydrazide, which worked fairly well and had low human toxicity. However, it was suspected of having carcinogenic effects and was withdrawn from sale. If by chance anyone still has any, it should be disposed of safely. Check with your local authority how to do this.